China will expand its strategic uranium reserve as part of its “five-year plan” for 2016-2020, with the aim of ensuring it has enough fuel to supply a massive program of new nuclear reactors.
Beijing, which began stockpiling uranium in 2007 and is estimated by the World Nuclear Association to have 74,000 tonnes of inventory – or about nine years of current demand – does not disclose details of its reserves.
However, demand is expected to outstrip domestic supply in coming years and a move to increase reserves could give a boost to depressed global prices.
